PlanetEye

 Mataam Fez is definitely hidden.  Located a rather run down section of Colfax, the main commercial street in Denver, it is almost as if Mataam Fez is trying to hide the fact that it is Moroccan restaurant.   The exterior is as plain and non-descript as it could be, without any indication that it is a Moroccan restaurant, or even that it is open.   Once inside, you will find that it's interior is as exciting and exotic as it's outside isn't.   Tapestries are hung from every wall and ceiling and belly dancers move to a middle eastern beat while the scent of what's to come wafts in from the kitchen.

By the time you are invited to sit on the floor among piles of pillows,  you are just beginning to get an idea of the treats in store for you.   The menu features a rich variety of lamb, poultry, fish, and even rabbit.  A vegetarian entree is also availible.  I have visited Mataam Fez perhaps a dozen times in the last 10 years, and regardless of what was ordered, everyone felt privilidged to enjoy such a unique feast.   In fact, the menu states that the kitchen purposely varies it's recipies as it's access to ingredients changes.

Your entree will be preceded by home made bread, lentil soup, a variety of vegetable salads, and a steaming hot, baked meat pie wrapped in a delicate flakey dough.  Now is the time to accept that you will not be able to finish everything.  At the conclusion of the meal, you will sprayed with rose water before given a glass of mint tea.  It is not that simple, but I will not spoil the surprise.

 For some however, this experience is not all fun and games.    You will be sitting on the floor with a towel over your shoulder and eating with your hands; silverware and napkins are not availible.  Do not wear your finest clothes, as they will almost certainly have food on them by the end of the evening.  Do not plan to have a quick meal and run off to a scheduled engagement as you can expect  your meal to take at least two hours.  If you are interested in an authentic Moroccan meal, it might be the most memorable two hours you ever spend in a restaurant.

 Insider tips: 

Always call them ahead of time to make a reservation, even on a week night.    You won't have too much trouble getting a reservation, but for some reason they do not like guests to show up without warning, especially when they are slow.

While their prices are reasonable, they are not inexpensive.   A typical meal costs about $20 before tax and tip.  Fortunately, a two for one discount is availible with the Entertainment Card (availible online and at local bookstores).

Mataam Fez Denver

(303) 399-9282  

4609 E Colfax Ave
Denver, CO 80220